April 5, 2011

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky senior Josh Harrellson has withdrawn from the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. The 6-foot-10 forward has been recommended by the UK medical staff to not have any physical activity for a week due to flu-like symptoms.

The prestigious Portsmouth Invitational Tournament is the NBA’s top pre-draft camp for college seniors. Harrellson was expected to participate in the tournament that runs from April 6-9, 2011 at Churchland High School in Portsmouth, Va.

 “I’m extremely disappointed that I won’t be able to participate in the Portsmouth Invitational,” Harrellson said.  “I was really looking forward to showcasing my abilities among the top seniors in the nation.  My focus now is on getting well and concentrating on my school work before working out for teams.”

Harrellson, the lone senior of this year’s squad, averaged 12.0 points and 8.1 rebounds this postseason. The St. Charles, Mo., native also earned NCAA East Regional All-Tournament and SEC All-Tournament honors, leading the Southeastern Conference in field goal percentage (.611) and ranking second in rebounding (8.7).

“It’s unfortunate that Josh will not be able to participate in this year’s Portsmouth event,” Kentucky head coach John Calipari said. “I know he was really honored to be selected and was looking forward to the opportunity. We’ll do everything we can to help him prepare once he’s cleared to return.”